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WWW.POTATOGROWER.COM 59 WWW.POTATOGROWER.COM 59 members of the Colorado Potato Administrative Committee (CPAC) and other potato growers, a plan was put in place where growers tax their water use to create funds to incentivize the retirement of farmland and encourage irrigation efficiency. This has resulted in a 20 percent reduction in pumping since the inception of the subdistricts and increased aquifer levels the last several years. While far from perfect, the plan appears to be making progress and is a remarkable cooperative effort between growers and state water regulators. Achieving this goal will be difficult, especially if the predictions concerning climate variability prove correct. Over the last year, the CPAC has partnered with the Colorado Energy Office, Colorado State University and other state commodity groups to promote education on climate smart agriculture. This program is designed to educate growers about the impacts of climate variability and techniques to mitigate it. The goal is to provide incentives to improve irrigation efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and increase grower profitability. The program provides a farm energy audit at no cost to participating growers and helps them evaluate potential irrigation and energy improvements on their farms. In addition, grants are available to implement the suggested efficiency upgrades and purchase the necessary equipment. Achieving long-term sustainability and profitability for Colorado potato growers requires dedicated stewardship to conserving and preserving this water, our lifeblood. Our potato growers are up to the challenge. 160938TriSte112.indd 1 6/27/16 8:44 AM • Fully automated traceability solution • Modular design to suit any size operation • Straight forward components are easy to install Traces from known locations in the field RiteTrace Track & Trace System To loads placed in storage Provides transparency to buyers & processors Visit greentronics.com Contact us at 519-669-4698 New Product 165423GreLtd23v.indd 1 1/16/17 12:08 PM